Never The Wind ; A book By Francesco Dimitri

The events in this book are palpable which makes it an interesting read. The book made me realize how frustrating blindness can be . I used to think it was something people could manage as the girl in my friend’s hostel makes it look like it’s not much of a big deal by moving around effortlessly. I was honestly frustrated alongside the protagonist. At some point I had to shut my eyes for a while to find things around the house. It was total blackout and i was completely useless without my sight.

This book is a gothic coming-of-age tale set in the picturesque region of Puglia, Southern Italy. Francesco Dimitri effectively crafts a narrative that blends family dynamics, personal growth and the supernatural, all through the unique perspective of a blind teenager.

The story follows Luca Saracino, a 13-year-old boy who, after losing his sight, moves with his family to a traditional farmhouse in rural Puglia. As Luca adapts to his new environment and blindness, he befriends Ada, a neighbor with whom his family shares a strained history. Amidst the challenges of adolescence and familial tensions, Luca encounters a mysterious entity he names “The Wanderer,” leading him to question the boundaries between reality and the supernatural.

First thing I’ll commend the author for is the portrayal of Luca’s sensory experiences. It’s beautiful as it offers the readers a vivid immersion into the boys' world and as well the world of people without sight. I enjoyed the fine descriptions of smells, sounds and textures entailed in the novel, it helped enhance its atmospheric quality.
Also, the relationship between Luca and Ada is a highlight, it showcases the complexities of friendship and young love against a backdrop of familial discord. Their interactions are genuine and heartfelt, adding depth to the narrative.
However, I’ll warn you ahead that the novel’s pacing may be challenging. The deliberate unfolding of events requires patience and while the infusion of magical realism adds intrigue, it occasionally blurs the line between reality and fantasy, potentially leading to ambiguity.

Trust me, this book, is a beautifully written exploration of adolescence, family and the unseen forces that shape our lives. Dimitri’s evocative prose and deep understanding of Italian culture helps make this novel a compelling read for those who appreciate literary fiction with a touch of the supernatural.
It’s an atmospheric read and I urge you to check it out.